GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) - If you are struggling with getting back in shape, or need a new exercise challenge Grand Valley Health Plan may have just the program for you.

GVHP is starting the second year of its "Couch to 5k Walk/Run Program." Running a 5k may sound intimidating for people who haven't run long distances before and especially for those who haven't worked out regularly in a while. But counselor & wellness coordinator, Ken Van Beek, promises it is possible with a little work and some dedication. "People can choose either to walk or run, alternate walking and running with the goal of either walking or running a 5k program by September," he said.

The program is roughly 14 weeks long and Van Beek says it's ideal for people of all fitness levels. "For a lot of people it is a kick off point. They are not regular exercisers. They hate the idea of regular exercise. Yet, coming and walking with people or running with people getting healthier and getting more active is something they are interested in and we are going to help them through that," said Van Beek.

GVHP had 21 people complete the program last year. Participants capped off the experience by walking/running the 2012 Bridge Run in September. Van Beek says they will do it again this year. "We work into it slowly but by the end people start feeling good with the running and faster walking," he said. Adding that participants also start feeling better about themselves.

The sessions are every Tuesday and Thursday through September, at Riverside Park in Grand Rapids, between 6:30 and 7:30 pm. Orientations are June 11th and June 13th at GVHP Beckwith Family Health Center located at 2680 Leonard Street NE in Grand Rapids.